I'm looking at a '03 standard mini with 260,000 miles that needs a clutch. According to the owner, it was running prior to the clutch going out but now gets zero power when the key is turned on. He thinks it's a problem with the transmission safety switch engagement.
Unfortunately, I don't have a lot of time to do research. What issues are associated with this car that I need to be aware about? Seller is asking $800 and I bet I can get it for $600.
Thanks for your replies.
https://portland.craigslist.org/clc/...500617678.html

 

Long distance diagnosing is not that easy. Car looks good but what do you mean by zero power, will not start or starts but will not rev up?

Me, I would put a OBD tester on it and see if there are any codes.

You are capable of turning your own wrenches?

 

Actually would look forward to the wrenching , that said have never seen under the hood but am assuming the little 4 banger doesn't take up any room. My inquiry is on any known problems with this year and model.

 

The big issue on the R50 is the automatic transmission so you don't have to worry about that. No SC so engine is easier to work on and it looks like a tintop with no sunroof so don't have to worry about the rain gutters plugging up that tend to ruin the BCM panel.

The MINI is a complex car and the electronic controls can be a bear. The car is 15 years old so anything rubber has seen better times.

 

If you have done a clutch before the Mini is a piece of cake.

If you can't fix the car yourself you shouldn't buy it